Rick Smith

I’m an experienced educator with 20 years of teaching and school leadership experience. After receiving a B.A. (Hons) Primary Education from Manchester Metropolitan University, I spent eight years working in the state school sector in Cheshire, UK. In 2008, I moved to work at the British International School of Chicago and spent eight fantastic years at the school. During my time at the school, I taught several different classes, including Year 4 and 5, before taking the role of Head of Primary P.E. In 2015, I moved to the South Loop campus where I was the Assistant Head of Primary (Academics and Curriculum) and taught Year 5. My family and I returned to the UK in 2016, where I held the role of Head of School (one day a week) as well as my usual role of Assistant Head of School and teacher of Year 5 and 6.

I cannot wait to return to Chicago and the BISC-LP campus. I love everything about the city and school and consider it home. I’m returning with my wife and young daughter, Martha, who will be joining the school in the Nursery. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with the staff and families of the school’s community, as well as meeting the new ones who have joined since I left.

I truly believe that there’s no limit to what every student can achieve if they are given the right opportunities to succeed. Having high expectations for the students in my class is something that I have always encouraged and is embodied by Nord Anglia Education’s "Be Ambitious" philosophy. I know firsthand that the opportunities that the BISC-LP students receive, whether it be in academics, the arts or the sports, are outstanding. I’m excited to be returning to this environment and for my own daughter to attend the school.